Clean Diesel

BMW's 2017 Diesels Delayed for More EPA Testing

July 20, 2016
• by Staff

Photo of 328d sedan courtesy of BMW.

Added scrutiny from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has delayed certification of BMW's diesel-powered 2017 models as a result of the Volkswagen's emission scandal, several media outlets are reporting.

BMW is still waiting for certification for four of its models, including the 328d sedan, 328d wagon, X3 xDrive28d, and X5 xDrive 35d, the company told Car and Driver.

The EPA has intensified its diesel testing proceedures after Volkswagen included a defeat device in nearly 500,000 vehicles that subverted testing protocols. The diesel-powered 2017 535d isn't included in the process.

Volkswagen has gained approval from air regulators of the final modification plan for the remaining vehicles that contain software designed to defeat emissions tests, the California Air Resources Board has announced.

Volkswagen has appointed Matthias Muller, the chairman of Porsche AG, as its new chief executive to replace the departed Martin Winterkorn, and will restructure its North American operations in the wake of a scandal over diesel emissions.

Volkswagen's chief executive said the company is "deeply sorry" and plans to fully cooperate with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in its investigation of the automaker's use of software to get around federal emissions regulations.